Art courses draw on virtual technology for adult learners in Devon

Devon Adult and Community Learning are creating three new eLearning courses after the successful pilot of a course in the spring term.

Printmaking, Watercolours and Drawing with Colour are all on offer in a blended learning format.

Using part face to face group meetings (four in total) and part distance learning, the course allows maximum flexibility and access for learners and also offers them a practical subject whilst taking advantage of digital technology.

Learners work towards a qualification and have found the course to be gratifying; creating  a portfolio of work they can be proud of. 

Feedback has been positive, particularly about the flexibility that these e-learning courses offer, as one of the arts and crafts learners on the recent e-learning  Still Life and Portraits course explains;

“It's been really helpful for me to draw at times convenient to me, to grab opportunities for short bursts of research or long spells when I got really involved in a drawing.”

Cabinet member with responsibility for adult learning, Roger Croad says; This is an innovative and creative approach to delivering these courses and it's good to hear that users are pleased with how they have been delivered. I would encourage others to look at our extensive range of adult learning opportunities."

Steve Roberts, Curriculum Officer (Culture) says; “These e-learning programmes are an opportunity for those who find it difficult to get to courses. With the majority of the study time being offered in a distance/e-learning format, learners can choose the time and place of their study, with email support from tutors”

During the pilot course an online exhibition of work was held on facebook https://www.facebook.com/events/442950239135559/ where you can see some of the wonderful work that was achieved.

In addition to art and craft courses we are running an exclusively online family history course.

Learners can enrol on these courses online at devon.gov.uk/adultlearning, by calling MyDevon on 0845 155 1014, or at a Devon ACL centre in person or via post: Devon Adult & Community Learning, Great Moor House, Bittern Road, Sowton, Exeter, EX2 7NL.